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Dejiang County in Guizhou is a beautiful destination known for its scenic landscapes and ethnic diversity. Recommended activities include hiking in the lush forests, visiting local Miao and Dong villages to experience traditional culture, and exploring the area’s caves, rivers, and waterfalls. The Daqikong Scenic Area is a must-visit for nature lovers, offering beautiful water features and picturesque landscapes.
Dejiang County, a district and county under the jurisdiction of Tongren City, Guizhou Province, is located in the northeastern part of the Guizhou Plateau, at the confluence of the Wuling and Dalou Mountains. Known as the "Hometown of Nuo Opera, Gastrodia Elata, and Strange Stones," Dejiang boasts beautiful mountains and rivers, simple folk customs, and breathtaking scenery. Among the attractions are the unique karst caves of Dalongqian, Longqiaodong, and Bailongdong; the enchanting and deep gorges of the Wujiang River, known as the "Little Three Gorges"; and the plunging Gaodong, Baishuiquan, and Lengshuiyan Waterfalls.
In addition, Dejiang is also a popular red tourism destination. The existing "Fengxiangxi Conference" site, monuments, battle sites and Red Army slogans are all representatives of Dejiang's "red culture".
Dejiang has a typical subtropical monsoon humid climate, with an average annual temperature between 13℃ and 17℃ and a frost-free period of 295 days.
Fengxi Conference Site
In June 1934, the Third Army of the Chinese Workers' and Peasants' Red Army advanced into Fengxiangxi. On June 19, the Fengxiangxi Conference of the Hunan-Hubei-West Hubei Central Bureau of the Chinese Communist Party was held there, a meeting of great significance in the history of our Party and Army. In 1980, a stone monument was erected on the hill north of the meeting site.
Dejiang scenery
Dejiang Confucian Temple, also known as the "Anhua County Confucian Temple of the Qing Dynasty", is located in the east of the middle section of Guangming Road in the county seat. It was first built during the Jiaqing period of the Ming Dynasty and is a temple dedicated to Confucius. The Confucian Temple faces east and west, covers an area of 2,180 square meters, and has a construction area of 876 square meters.
Dejiang County is historically significant for its ethnic diversity, being home to many Miao and Dong people. The region's cultural heritage is rich in folk traditions, such as traditional music, dance, and handicrafts. Its natural beauty, with abundant forests and rivers, also makes it an important area for eco-tourism and conservation in Guizhou Province.
Dejiang County is located in the northeastern part of Guizhou Province, about 200 km from Guiyang, the provincial capital. To get there, visitors can take a long-distance bus from Guiyang to Dejiang. Alternatively, one can hire a taxi or take a private car. There are no direct metro connections, so traveling by bus or car is the most convenient option.
The attractions in Dejiang County are generally open year-round. However, the best times to visit are in spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for outdoor activities. The summer months can be humid and rainy, so it's advisable to check the weather forecast before visiting.
Entrance fees for the main attractions like the Daqikong Scenic Area are typically around ¥50 to ¥100. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or through local travel agencies. Some attractions may also offer online booking via tourism platforms, especially during peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak travel seasons (holidays, summer months) to avoid long queues. A few days to a week in advance is usually sufficient, though booking earlier is advisable if you plan on visiting popular attractions or joining organized tours.
A visit to Dejiang County typically takes 2 to 3 days. This allows time to explore the scenic areas, take part in cultural experiences in local villages, and enjoy nature walks. If you wish to visit multiple scenic spots and enjoy the natural beauty, a 3-day trip would be ideal.
The must-see highlights include the Daqikong Scenic Area, known for its rivers, waterfalls, and lush forests; the local Miao and Dong villages, where visitors can experience ethnic culture; and the various caves and natural landscapes that offer hiking opportunities and scenic views.
Guided tours are available for many of the attractions, especially in the Daqikong Scenic Area and ethnic villages. These tours are typically conducted in Mandarin, but some operators may offer English-speaking guides for foreign visitors. Audio guides may also be available for certain locations.
The best viewpoints for photography include the waterfalls and river vistas at the Daqikong Scenic Area, where the natural landscape offers dramatic backdrops. The local villages, with their traditional wooden houses and terraced fields, also provide great opportunities for cultural photography.
A recommended itinerary includes starting with a visit to the Daqikong Scenic Area for a day of nature exploration, followed by a visit to the local Miao and Dong villages to experience their traditional culture. The second day can be spent hiking in the region’s forests or exploring nearby caves and rivers.
Night visits are not common in Dejiang County, but some villages may offer evening cultural performances or folk music shows. Special tours can be arranged through local travel agencies, especially if you're interested in exploring local traditions after dark.
Dejiang County is generally not overcrowded, making it a great destination for those looking to escape the larger tourist crowds. The least crowded times to visit are during the weekdays, especially outside of public holidays and the summer peak season.
Basic facilities such as toilets, food stalls, and rest areas are available at most major attractions, including the Daqikong Scenic Area. However, in more remote or rural areas, facilities may be limited. It’s advisable to carry water and snacks if you plan to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Some of the natural sites and hiking areas in Dejiang County may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain. However, the village tours and cultural experiences are more accessible and can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages.
Cash is still commonly used in Dejiang County, especially in more rural areas. However, mobile payment platforms like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in most places, including larger towns and tourist sites. It’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors or in areas with limited digital payment infrastructure.
There are several local restaurants and cafes in Dejiang County that serve traditional Guizhou cuisine, including spicy dishes and rice noodles. In larger towns, you can find a range of food options, including snacks and local specialties like sour fish soup and rice cakes.
Vegetarian options are available in Dejiang County, particularly in local vegetable and tofu dishes. Halal food is less common, but some restaurants may offer dishes that cater to Muslim dietary requirements. It is advisable to check in advance if you have specific dietary needs.
Dejiang County offers a range of accommodation options, from basic guesthouses in rural areas to mid-range hotels in the town center. Some of the scenic spots may offer eco-lodges or traditional-style guesthouses for a more immersive experience in the natural surroundings.
Nearby attractions include the Wulong River and the scenic areas of Tongren City. If you're traveling further, you can also visit the famous Fenghuang Ancient Town, which is about a 2-3 hour drive away, and is known for its well-preserved ancient architecture and cultural history.
Souvenir shops in Dejiang County sell locally made handicrafts, including embroidered textiles, wooden carvings, and traditional Miao and Dong clothing. Local food products, such as rice cakes and preserved meats, are also popular souvenirs.
After visiting Dejiang County, you can continue your trip by taking a bus or taxi to nearby towns like Tongren City or Guiyang. Buses are the most common transportation, but private cars or taxis provide more flexibility if you're continuing your journey to other parts of Guizhou Province.
